Gratitude Photography Project 2014

Gratitude Photography Project 2014

“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” ~ Mother Teresa

The last day of the year stirs reflection. 365 days have passed that make up a year of living, loving, breathing, walking, praying, hoping. Moments, hours, days, weeks, months. Time. Where did it go? Gratitude for living and loving through another year. These thoughts occupy my mind on New Year’s Eves. Looking back helps set a focus for the day and year to come. Then hope steps in filling thoughts for time yet to come. Hope comes easily and it feels reassuring.

I am so grateful for this life and the beauty found in it. Caring people who give of themselves to make a difference in the life of another instill hope in all of us. Parents teaching their children what is right and good. Couples honoring each other in their love. It all comes down to love. I am so very grateful for the power of love.

“It's funny how, in this journey of life, even though we may begin at different times and places, our paths cross with others so that we may share our love, compassion, observations, and hope. This is a design of God that I appreciate and cherish.” ~Steve Maraboli

Peace. Thank you for sharing this journey with me.

Jennifer Swanagon

December 30,

"Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some." ~Charles Dickens

It has been a year since I began this walk of gratitude. It has been a journey. This certainly has been the biggest project I have committed myself to and have completed. I have benefitted greatly by the exploration of gratitude along the way. There were some challenging days which made this project all the more gratifying. Contemplating gratitude has instilled in me a sense of greater peace of mind and added joy. Gratitude became habitual.

This image from beautiful Dubrovnik, Croatia added a visual to this journey. The streets and walkways of this historic walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site are rich with the presence of life. This city has experienced a great deal since its founding in early 7th century. It is known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic’ and is on the gorgeous Dalmatian coast. The citizens of this city experienced a severe earthquake in 1667 and over three years in the 1990’s this city was heavily bombed by neighboring countries during the Bosnia Serbian War. The people of this historic city are friendly, thoughtful and wonderful hosts. They are very peaceful. We are thankful we visited this wonderful city.

Tomorrow this project will draw to a close. I am so very grateful for this journey and all that it has added to my life. Thank you for joining me and encouraging me along the way. There were days I wondered what I was doing. Who was I to be writing about gratitude? But those negative thoughts dissipated after some deep breaths and I was back on my way. Gratitude is a rich blessing with many rewards.

"Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity...it makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." ~Melody Beattie

Peace.

December 29,

Another benefit to this wonderful, festive time of year is added family time. Life can be so busy with schedules, work, and responsibilities. So at this time of year, from Christmas through New Year's, with school holidays in progress across the country, it is comforting to see families enjoying fun activities. Colorado provides ample opportunities and places for those seeking winter activities.

This image was captured at Evergreen Lake which has been rated as one of the top ten ice rinks by Sunset Magazine. Families and friends gather here for fun. And on New Year’s Day there is a Polar Bear Plunge which draws people to extreme fun in a fundraiser benefiting Drive Smart and the Evergreen Park & Recreation District Special Needs Program.

Quality time together with those you love is a treasure, and I am grateful for these opportunities. It was more enjoyable being out on this photo opportunity with my husband along.

“You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”– Frederick Buechner
Peace.

December 26,

It turned out to be a white Christmas here and the winter storm moved in at a good time giving people enough notice and time to go where they wanted to go.

Watching the snow fall from a warm home with wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen and the voices and laughter of family make for a memorable time.

Waking to snowfall and a beautiful blanket of fluffy white covering the landscape is a treat especially when there is not a need to travel in these conditions. This makes for a good setting for reflecting on the holiday.
I am deeply grateful for the beauty of this season and the love of family and friends.

This image was captured as I gazed out the window. The beauty of the fragile snow on the branches of our aspen tree caught my eye. How fragile and pretty.

"Kindness is like snow~ it beautifies everything it covers." ~Unknown

Peace.

December 25,
"I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men!" — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Christmas Day is here. May the light of the Christ Child, bring light to warm your heart in peace and love now and always.
I am grateful for God’s greatest gift, Jesus who offers us peace and grace to those who will just trust, believe, and obey.
If only the spirit of Christmas could last throughout the entire year. The world needs this love and peace.

We have a talented person in our church that makes stained glass art. I admire the work of these talented hands and appreciate the Nativity scene that is displayed during this season. It reminds me of the meaning and importance of this time of year.

"Christmas is forever, not for just one day,
for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away
like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.
The good you do for others is good you do yourself..."
~Norman Wesley Brooks

Peace.

December 24,
Merry Christmas from our family to yours. May you know an abundance of peace and love this Christmas.
I am grateful for my family and friends who make my life so rich.
“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.”
~Charles Dickens
Peace.

December 23,

It is a gift to spend a few days before the holidays with family. Our family endured the longest of our drives on I 70 yesterday to enjoy some time in the mountains. What is normally a 2 to 2 1/2 hour drive took us well over 5 hours. Once we arrived the strain of the drive and conditions just melted away.
I am grateful for this precious time with our immediate family. Being together without jobs from home to do makes for long conversations and relaxation. It is certainly a gift.
This image was captured before dawn in the quiet early hours of the morning. The sparkle of the lights against the snow with the glow of the lantern captured my attention. It is lovely to enjoy the decorations of the holiday season.
"At Christmas, the light of each of us helps light the night with another kind of luminosity: all so much silver and moonlight mixed in with strings of dancing Christmas lights.”~Unknown

Peace.

December 22,

Yesterday was the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of light in the year which means that the sun is at its southern most point. In the farthest northern point the sun will not show itself on this day, while the South Pole receives 24 hours of light. Solstice means to stand still and according to various texts the sun in astronomical vocabulary seems to stand still from December 22-24.

For Christians this leads us on the 25th to the coming of the light of the world the Christ Child. After the solstice there is one second of light added to each day. We move into more light as the weeks pass. It is fitting that for most of us we are in our longer periods of darkness this time of year before Christmas.

I relish Winter Solstice. With the coldness of winter and the longest night, it is comforting to get comfy in favored jammies and look forward to the light.

“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” ~ Albert Schweitzer

Peace.

December 19,

This group of women just yesterday acquired the label of prayer warriors. It is a label we graciously accepted from one of our members. This is our Bible Study group, Java & Jesus, and we meet once a week. We share praises and prayer requests and sometimes just these two things provide such a stimulating conversation that we have to be reminded about the lesson that day. Learning of a prayer request provides the opportunity to think and pray for others who need this support. Praises are important as well because it is good to thank God when there is a time of celebration. These women love and care for each other and strengthen each of us. I enjoy learning more about a book of the Bible with these intelligent women.

This was our Christmas celebration together and food is always a wonderful way to share your love. We laughed, talked and enjoyed the lesson of the day. We sadly missed those important women who could not be there.

This time of the week refills my cup with love and grace. I am so very grateful for this Bible Study group. They add so much to my journey in faith.

"The book to read is not the one which thinks for you, but the one which makes you think. No book in the world equals the Bible for that.” ~Harper Lee

Peace.

December 18,
The early moments of the day after waking are a special time of the day. The mind is fresh and open to thoughts and contemplations. It is a time of day that can hold great inspiration. It is filled with hope, peace, and goodness. Do poets do their best work at this time of day? One can get ahead of the day and be prepared to face the day with peace. This is my time of the day.

To find this level of peace at different times of the day is a gift. This image was captured in the afternoon, but it provided the peace and inspiration of the early hours of a young day. I wished I could sit by this creek and contemplate life.
I am grateful for these times of inspiration and peace in the day.

“Morning is an important time of day, because how you spend your morning can often tell you what kind of day you are going to have.” ~ Lemony Snicket

Peace.

December 16,

Gifts made with the loving hands of family or friends are special. Whether it is food or something to enjoy in the home, these gifts have so much meaning; they are gracious acts of thoughtfulness. I hold wonderful memories of being on the receiving end of these treasures of the heart.

When I taught second and third grade in Norman many years ago, one such thoughtful student, Lynette would make beautiful cards with sequins and other colorful craft decorations for me at each holiday. These cards not only were lovely for the eyes but the written sentiments touched my heart. Each card was a special project that was undertaken with sentiment.

Last weekend we were blessed to be with my husband’s parents. My mother-in-law, is a talented cook. We were fortunate to have her chocolate peanut clusters, a treat she makes at this time of year. It seemed totally appropriate to eat one of these morsels at 10 AM.

I include the gift of time along with these gifts of the heart. Quality time with a loved one or someone in need is a rare gift as time seems to sleep so quickly through our hands. I am so very grateful to receive gifts from the heart.

Our daughter and I get together to make goodies for our friends each Christmas season. It is fun to listen to music or put on 'Love Actually' and cook away. This image is of the homemade dog biscuits we will be giving to our friends this year.

"I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” ~Stephen Grellet

Peace.

December 15,

Evergreen Lake this time of year dons her winter attire for the enjoyment of winter scenes of ice skating, ice hockey and ice fishing. I would not be surprised if there were other winter sports that take place on this beautiful lake because it just beckons the community to get out and enjoy its scenery.

Last week I saw an early day photo of a friend with his father on the lake for some ice skating. What fun this wonderful lake has provided over the years!

This image was captured last winter as our girl and I were walking the snow-covered path around the perimeter of the lake. She just had to get out on the ice. It was such a novelty to her as she gingerly walked on the ice. I wish I knew her thoughts as she stepped on the cold, slippery ice that felt so different than the frozen ground. Her wagging tail did give me clues to her feelings.

I enjoy experiencing the world through our lab’s eyes. To see things that draw her in for a closer look makes me think I might have overlooked something wonderful. To see her face when I hug her or talk with her is such a joy. She makes me feel important.

I am grateful for this winter wonderland of possibilities to experience and enjoy and the help I get from our girl.

"In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn't merely try to train him to be semihuman. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog."~Edward Hoagland

Peace.

December 12,

This image brought many themes to mind and they all seemed to relate to a question Barbara Brown Taylor asks. “What is keeping you strong right now?” I also see this question as what is keeping me grounded right now. Both questions take me to the same place, my faith in the peace of Jesus Christ. My deep abiding faith keeps me grounded when the coldness of life brushes up against me and tries to unsettle me. When unkind words or the fast pace of schedules try to derail my peace of mind, I remember to breathe and say a silent prayer.

I used a very slow shutter speed and held the camera to illustrate the power of the water as it flows quickly by the ice ridden shore. This image could be unsettling or soothing depending on one’s interpretation. I like images like this that are provocative.

I am grateful for the grounding of God’s love.

Ephisians:3:17 ~ Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong.

Peace.

December 11,

Here in the foothills with nature as a backdrop, one notices the comings and goings of animal life. This week my husband noticed we had a fox den in our backyard down by the meadow. We have learned to recognize the sounds of mountain lions, fox, turkeys, elk, and birds. It is truly like living in a wild kingdom. Respectfully we live amongst these animals.

This week as I turned into the parking lot of a local business, I noticed these 8 bull elk relaxing in the field across the road. It was unique to see this number of males together. What would cause them to seek each other’s company?

I am grateful for the wildlife that call this area home. It is a gift to live so close to nature.

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the Earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.”
~Rachel Carson

Peace.

December 10,

This time of year the music of this season adds so much to the enjoyment of Christmas. At our church we have 2 very talented musical groups, the choir and the handbell group. Their music adds so much to a service. Children choirs, the symphony and other groups of talented musicians entertain with beautiful programs during this time of year. I appreciate all the practice these groups go through to make this time of year special.

My aunt was a musician as well as talented in needlework. This cross-stitch of a children’s choir was one of the many Christmas decorations she made for us. I so enjoy seeing her talented work during Christmas.

Music is soothing and inspiring. I am so very grateful to all those who use their musical talent.

"Where words fail, music speaks.” ~Hans Christian Andersen

Peace.

December 9,

I have enjoyed reflecting on this project of gratitude this last month of the year and contemplating the remaining topics to explore. This project could not have happened without the gift of the internet. The knowledge that is at our fingertips is amazing especially if it is used for good. Using keywords of themes brings up many choices to increase one’s understanding. It is with deep gratitude that each morning’s post was enhanced with the volume of sources accessed through my computer. Whether it was a need for a quote or verse, or exploring an idea, or finding the location of a place that was photographed, the topics were instantly there for me to sort through and read.

I am grateful that I have not had to rely on encyclopedias or visit a library to do research. Most of us can remember looking up a topic in a card catalog and then going to the specific index or books. This was time consuming and it was even longer recording what was learned with paper and pencil. Many days a post was done while in my jammies with a latte, a comfortable combination not allowed in research facilities. Sharing my thoughts and using images would have been impossible without the ease of the internet.

This image was one of many I enjoyed capturing while visiting Amsterdam. Bikers had no problem using smartphones while on their bicycles. Was this young man giving attention to a text or looking up directions of his destination? It made for an interesting image.

"The human spirit must prevail over technology."~Albert Einstein

Peace.

December 8,

"I believe in the goodness of the human heart." -Barbara Brown Taylor.

Last week, three examples of volunteering were highlighted. I would be remiss if I did not offer my gratitude to all the people who volunteer their time or talent to make a situation in this world better. These wonderful people offer a beautiful part of themselves. Speak with people who volunteer and they will quickly share with you how much joy they get in giving their time or talent to a cause.

Acts of kindness and service illustrate the beauty of this season and portray the real meaning of Christmas. I am so grateful for volunteers who give freely of their time throughout the year. These acts of thoughtfulness make the world a better place.

A few years ago I volunteered for Habitat for Humanity here in the Denver and Evergreen area by taking photos of the build. All the volunteers were so content to be fulfilling a purpose for this worthy cause. It was a joy to capture the building process for each of these homes.

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
~ Desmond Tutu

Peace.

December 5,

“Recent research shows that many children who do not have enough to eat wind up with diminished capacity to understand and learn. Children don’t have to be starving for this to happen. Even mild undernutrition – the kind most common among poor people in America – can do it.” ~Carl Sagan

I am grateful to know many wonderful people with hearts for helping those in need and at Evergreen Lutheran Church one of the many, many people who fall into this category is Shelley Harmon. Over the years she has been drawn to help those in need of food, the hungry. She was instrumental in organizing a group from ELC to feed the inner city hungry in Denver. She had her then young boys help right along side all of us and noticed the difference it made to them at such a young age. She had two take aways from that experience, the love of volunteering with her boys and feeding the hungry is the right thing to do. A child in school should not have difficulty concentrating on their subjects due to a hungry tummy.

Last year Shelly along with our previous youth minister started the Evergreen area’s Backpack Program. This serves the hungry children who attend the schools in Evergreen. Sadly there was more need than they thought. The first year there were 20 children at one elementary school who needed this program. Within three months of the school year left another school contacted them and they signed up ten children in the first week. This year they offered it to eight schools and have seven schools that are participating. They are sending home 60 backpacks per week and also make sure the children have enough food for long weekends and holiday breaks. They provide them with one breakfast, one lunch and two snacks for everyday they are not in school. The program's mission statement is to "keep children full and focused" throughout the school year.

This year Shelley runs the program with four other women along with our youth minister, Kelsey. On Tuesday nights adults can volunteer to sort and pack. On Wednesday nights parents and children can work together and get these backpacks ready to send home on Friday. She said that this has been a community effort, not just people from our church or the rotary. Kids as young as five volunteer and parents from all of our schools come to help. Most importantly the children that are enrolled in the program seem to like picking up their backpacks. They have had wonderful feedback from the families who use the program. As Shelly said, " I just cannot imagine being hungry. These families have all sorts of reasons why they need the program and although she does not ask, they often share their stories. I am just so happy that they have trusted us and allowed us to help. “

I am so deeply grateful for Shelly’s work and the Mountain Backpack Program volunteers.

Proverbs 14:31: Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.

Peace

Please click on the video to watch and then scroll down for thoughts.
Thank you.

Gail and Deb

December 4,

After they packed the Soldier Boxes on Monday, Gail Ridings, owner of TallGrass Spa and her family of employees stuffed Christmas stockings for the children at Mountain Resource Center. This philanthropy serves a large area of the mountain communities in Colorado. Their mission and vision are to provide high quality, integrated health and human services that enrich the lives of people in communities they serve. It is a community-based nonprofit in which neighbors help their neighbors. It was Mountain Resource Center that was instrumental in giving immediate help for victims of a vicious wildfire a couple of years ago by not only assisting property owners but finding safe places for their pets. Mountain families in crisis have this fine local organization they can contact.

Gail became involved at Christmas time 15 years ago when she noticed a real need with this nonprofit. That year she found a Christmas tree for them by contacting a local business and now it has grown into Mr. and Mrs. Claus arriving on a Conifer fire truck with the firemen. The children receive a stocking stuffed with meaningful and fun items. When asked about how she got involved with this organization her 'I' quickly turned into ‘we’.

Her employees voted to support this wonderful nonprofit. They can donate an amount from their October and November paycheck as well as line up donations for these stockings. These photos illustrate the joy these wonderful women have in their hearts for this organization.

I am grateful for Gail's loving heart and her wonderful family at TallGrass who will make this Christmas a little better for the children served by Mountain Resource Center.

“For it is in giving that we receive.” ~ Francis of Assisi

Peace.

Please click on above for video.

December 3,

This week I had the pleasure of witnessing a powerful project from the heart of one very beautiful person, Deb Dickinson and her colleagues from TallGrass Spa. Deb found out about Soldier Boxes from a client at the spa. Deb shared her thoughts with me…. "I am so proud of this project. My dad was a Navigator in the Air Force, a WWII Vet, taken as a POW and was also called back in the Korean War because they were so short handed. I feel very strongly about doing this as a way to honor him, as well as all those that do or have served. My son was also in the Army National Guard and so proud of him as well, feeling very lucky he was not involved in a conflict.”

She added, "I started very small with just a few people donating travel size toiletries, playing cards, puzzles, anything to make our soldiers more comfortable. When Gail and TallGrass got involved, the project started growing like crazy. We now collect from TallGrass employees, and clients. Evergreen Rotary has been a huge donor as well as the Evergreen American Legion which donates small folded flags with a poem attached. Clients and staff write little notes to the soldiers on cards. These are the very most important and well received of anything we send."

These boxes are sent by these women twice a year. This wonderful group of people met after their staff meeting in Deb’s basement where she had stored and organized items that were donated and purchased for this project. The room was filled with tables where these women wrote cards to the soldiers as Deb was interviewed. It looked liked Santa’s workshop! Deb was chosen as a Channel 7 News Everyday Hero and gave an interview about her project. She was nominated for this award by one of her peers at the spa. Her interview will air on Channel 7 beginning on Sunday and run throughout December.

My heart is filled with gratitude for this beautiful person who inspires everyone around her. There is a very special soldier who will open each box and receive so much love and appreciation. Thank you, Deb.

"One is not born into the world to do everything but to do something" - Henry David Thoreau

Peace.

December 2,

Decorating the Christmas tree is a special event for our family because it is something we have always done together. We have decorations that represent each year of our marriage. It is sweet to look back at the beginning and be reminded of the really lean years together long before our daughter was born. Our immediate family consisted of Bobby, myself, and our dog, Duck.

Our first year we could afford ornaments or a very small tree so we bought a small tree and made these ornaments from dough. These are some of the most memorable and special ones on the tree now. They are priceless. Reflecting on these times adds such gratitude and appreciation for what we have now. Life was simple and oh so good.

It is good to remember and reflect on where you started.

“Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.”
― Epictetus

Peace.

December 1,

The last month of the year and better yet, it is the month leading up to Christmas. The advent season has begun for Christians and Hanukkah is approaching for the Jewish faith. It is a busy festive month. There are so many ways to fully enjoy this season and honor the beauty in it.

Advent is a way of extending and increasing the joy of Christmas. It can be a time of reflection and yearning for meaning to the season. Yesterday, the first Sunday of Advent, the candle of longing was lit. Many churches celebrate the advent season by the lighting of the advent candles for the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. This represents the period of longing for and looking forward to the birth of Christ.

When our daughter was a young girl, we always had advent calendars. One year in her adolescence I made a calendar that included acts of service that she could do at home or for someone else. It all led to a more enjoyable and meaningful Christmas.

Candles add simple beauty to the holidays this month. The flame, scent, and light add beauty to a room.

I am grateful for this season.

"Advent-like longing is like a spiritual homing device placed deep in our hearts by God to lead us back to him." ~C.S. Lewis-
Peace.

November 28,

This morning as I woke I contemplated gratitude. My eyes opened this morning. I breathed. I thought. I moved. This morning with ease four pieces of gratitude came to me within minutes. Often I take for granted these amazing gifts but not today. These turned into a perfect prayer of thanks to God for the gift of another day of life.

This image was captured last week when the weather was cold and fresh snow draped the pines. It is a gift to have time to notice a beautiful sunrise, sip a hot latte and contemplate the opportunities and hope for the day.

“A miracle happened, another day of life.” ~Paul Coelho

Peace.

November 27,

It is Thanksgiving Day, a day many of us still hold precious and sacred for giving thanks and gathering with loved ones while some devote their gratitude for serving others this special day. Focusing on gratitude this year has brought to light gifts and blessings that otherwise might have remained hidden.

Where we live wild turkeys periodically wander in our meadow. To observe these birds and occasionally watch them fly is a gift.

It is with a grateful heart that my husband and I watched the dawning of this day. The sunrise was gorgeous with clouds painted in peach and rose. Anytime I see a sunrise I thank God for this beautiful painting of first light. I am grateful to God for all the gifts and blessings that I see and sincerely hope to be made aware of those I have yet to see.

“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

Peace.

November 26,

The innocence of a child is a precious commodity. Merriam Webster’s second definition of innocence is the lack of experience with the world and with the bad things that happen in life. Is it a waste of time to look at the world through a child’s eyes? I don’t think it is. In fact I will go out on a limb and say the world could use more of it. Children look at the world through a lens which is not distorted with negativity or judgement. As adults we may not be able to see the world through a child’s eyes, but surely we could have the heart of a child where goodness and love run amok.

This image was captured on a Saturday in a Trastevere plaza. This area of Rome is where one can get away from the crowds of the tourists and mingle with the locals. We observed this performer for a bit. He caught us off guard at first and we had to take a closer look. When this child spotted him, she slowly made her way to him. The expression on her face was priceless. I wonder what the performer’s expression looked like.

I am grateful for the lessons children teach us.

“Children see magic because they look for it.” ~ Christopher Moore

Peace.

November 25,

Caring for others is a wonderful and important aspect that instills beauty into life. A caring heart can do wonders. The spouse who lovingly cares for their ill loved one wanting just more time together. The acts of those who support causes that bring compassion to those in need is caring. The thoughtful response or action of a family member, friend, or person in passing spreads care. Caring comes from goodness and from yearning for something to be better.

This image when captured was sweet and whimsical to me. Someone provided fresh water to passing dogs. The words grazia and graziella here are capitalized along with the other words, so it could be assumed these were two dogs. The meaning of each of these words comes from grace. This water stand was on a walkway for use for all dogs. It would have been interesting to speak with the person who constructed such a caring act for dogs and find out if there was a Grazia and Graziella or was it an act of grace to offer water to passing pooches.

I am grateful for the act of caring and the seeds of goodness it plants.

“Love, caring, and the spirit of kindness always bring happiness. Our greatest happiness depends on what we love, how we care, and how we share.” ~Debasish Mridha

Peace.

November 24,

Practice can be most helpful in life. Last week it was a pleasure to acquire some practice with our youngest male family member in Colorado. This little fellow, Hugh and I had a good time. I saw him with different eyes due to our grandson’s arrival early next year. Hugh gave me some light practice as he is such a sweetheart.

It was fun to capture some images of Hugh and this one beat them all. Both our girl and Hugh were focused on what was happening. It was a good reminder that little hands are busy.

I am grateful for Hugh and his brother and sister. Over the years they have been the source of precious memories and wonderful practice.

"I remember thinking how often we look, but never see ... we listen, but never hear ... we exist, but never feel. We take our relationships for granted. A house is only a place. It has no life of its own. It needs human voices, activity and laughter to come alive.” ~Erma Bombeck

Peace.

November 21,

To notice or observe adds beauty and meaning to life. Whether it is the look in a loved one’s eye or something in what a friend said, noticing can add a deeper and richer quality to a day or a relationship. This takes time or a pause in one’s pace but it is worth it.

When our dog is on the deck she barks at certain critters in the back yard. Rabbits, fox, deer, and turkeys are prime targets for a bark. Elk have her respect and she typically just observes them. This week she barked and this is a signal that there might be something of interest in our meadow. This fox was her focus. I have been wanting to capture an image of a fox but get so caught up in watching them that I either miss the shot or let it go.

This one has been coming by our home daily for the past few months. Last week he was curled up on a boulder in our front yard. The light was too dim for a quality image so I enjoyed observing this animal soaking up the warmth of the rock as he relaxed.

I am grateful for what comes to me when I pause to see, absorb and notice.

“When you nurture Nature, Nature nurtures you.” ~ Donald L. Hicks

Peace.

November 20

Today is a milestone day for our family; it is our wedding anniversary. We have been partners in life for well over 3 decades. Together we have enjoyed blessings and faced adversity, with smiles and tears. Together we have a daughter who has blessed us beyond our dreams. Together we witnessed the marriage of our daughter to her fine husband and together we will soon be grandparents to a grandson. Together we love and thank God for the blessings of our walk together on this earth.

This image was captured by the photographer at the wedding of our daughter and son-in-law. The photographer happened to witness our clasped hands during the ceremony. It is an image that captures the essence of our love.

I am grateful this day and eternally for the gift of time together with my husband.

“Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”
~ I Corinthians 13:7

Peace.

November 19,

“Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength.”~Unknown

Strength gains a larger meaning as one ages. In youth strength typically shows its meaning as in the body such as muscles. As one matures life offers lessons in which one can develop a long lasting type of strength such as fortitude which is defined as courage in pain or adversity. I am grateful for and depend on this gift of strength to deal with the surprises and challenges of life that can overcome best intentions.

I know a person who deals with adversity of great proportions. These challenges are not of her or his choosing. I have observed this person deal with a range of issues from minor to overwhelming. Sometimes it is not pretty the choices that are made. Often times I am blown away by the strength and goodness of this courageous individual. I am humbly grateful that I was given opportunity to cross paths and walk for a time with this individual. God places people in our lives for a reason, I believe, and for that I again am grateful.

At first glance this image might not appear to represent fortitude or strength but take a closer look. There are two elements of nature in this image, water and flowers. Water can weaken the strongest rock over time and with great force it can damage anything in its path. Flowers have a softer strength with their beauty and scent but can hold up fairly well to the elements within nature. We offer flowers to loved ones in time of celebration and pain.

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Peace.

November 18,

My husband’s uncle had a motto and a slogan he followed in his life which was “Keep a goin’."
He did just that throughout his life with a positive attitude despite wearing a heavy cumbersome brace for his back. His example inspired us.

I admire the strength, determination and fortitude in people whose steps or movements do not cease despite pain or age. It is important to overall health and perspective to keep a purpose throughout life.

This image was captured while we were walking through the small back walkways in Dubrovnik. The charming woman was out for her morning exercise. Her steps were slow and measured but determined. She placed her free hand on the wall as she made each step. Her subtle smile here was one of greeting. I enjoy this image for many reasons. It shows courage, purpose, patience, and satisfaction. It exemplifies the spirit of "Keep a goin’.”

"What lies behind us and what lies ahead of us are tiny matters to what lies within us.”~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Peace.

November 17,

Success comes with preparation and planning to the individual, small group or to a community. Our community enjoyed a weekend of wonderful success despite cold weather and snow. The Alternative Gift Fair, a gift twice event made up of over 50 nonprofit vendors enjoyed a large turnout of shoppers on Saturday and Sunday. About 200 Volunteers from eight faith groups gave their time and energy to make this event happen. Shuttle drivers and parking attendants endured the cold with warm hearts, hand warmers, and a smile. The Youth Cafe consisting of three area youth groups served lunch and breakfast foods. Other volunteers were giving hospitality to the vendors, pricing and packaging baked goods, or taking care of issues that arose.

I am grateful for this event for many reasons. It is enjoyable to see friends and make new friendships when working this event. Everyone has a heart for service. The vendors have interesting stories of how they became involved with their nonprofit. It was truly an inspiring weekend. Our youngest vendor was a talented eighth grader with a talent for photography. Her booth consisted of notecards using her beautiful photography with proceeds going to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado. She is an inspiration to me.

My camera was not with me this weekend due to busyness and other responsibilities. This is a small representation of the goods we purchased at the fair.

The energy at this event is contagious. I am grateful to all the people who participated in this event. It is a pleasure to be a part of the planning of this event.

“The best antidote I know for worry is work. The best cure for weariness is the challenge of helping someone who is even more tired. One of the great ironies of life is this: He or she who serves almost always benefits more than he or she who is served.” ~ Gordon B. Hinckley
Peace.

November 14,

Today begins the implementation of all the hard work of the Alternative Gift Fair Committee, a hard working, big hearted group of caring people who represent 8 faith groups in the Evergreen area. I enjoy working with this fabulous group of people.

The Bake Sale is my focus and today big-hearted caring people will begin dropping off their tasty goods which make this a popular stop at the two day fair. The money from the bake sale supports the costs incurred of putting on this wonderful two day event.
Vendors from local nonprofits and many who represent worldwide nonprofits will sell their goods and take home 100% of the money from goods they sell. It is such an amazing event for Jefferson County. It is also known as gifttwice.org since a purchase gifts the seller and the person receiving.

Local friends please stop by the fair at Evergreen Lutheran Church Saturday, 9-4 and Sunday 9-3. Shop for your loved ones and take home some tasty morsels from the bake sale. You will be blessed.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ― Mahatma Gandhi

Peace.

November 13,

We enjoy living where there are seasons and these past few days we have moved through a beautiful warm fall to arctic cold with snow. It seems like winter is barging through the door early. Although the level of snow received was minimal the combination of light snow and cold temperatures made the walls of our home beckon me to stay. Cooking, reading, catching up on my to-do-list, and slowing down just a bit were all worthy of my time. So it is with all this in mind that I am grateful for Mother Nature’s blast.

This morning the sun appeared after hiding for three days. The peach and the rose of sunrise over the snow covered meadow was a lovely sight. This image of our blue spruce dressed in winter white with the blue sky background gave me a smile as I waited outside for our lab this morning.

I am grateful for the sunshine this morning and the last few days of winter- like weather.

"Learn to pause...or nothing worthwhile will catch up to you.” ~ Doug King

Peace.

November 12,

“Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is daily admission of one's weakness. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi

I am grateful for the power of prayer which strengthens me and fills me with peace. My prayers are to God and Christ. Prayer is stating something close to the heart and then letting go with a sense of peace. Having prayed, then I strive for awareness for what happens from this prayer.

Prayer makes me feel proactive in supporting family, friends and people unknown to me. Words are not always needed to pray, but a heart is. God doesn’t require us to be in certain places in order to hear our prayers. He will take them no matter where they are given.

This image was captured while observing the steps leading to a church in Dubrovnik. The nun with bowed head touched my heart, and I almost felt invasive to her quiet moments. It is a beautiful moment.

I am grateful for prayer and never underestimate its power.

“Prayer is not asking. Prayer is putting oneself in the hands of God, at His disposition, and listening to His voice in the depth of our hearts.” ~ Mother Teresa

Peace.

November 11,

Today is Veterans Day, a day of remembrance for all military personnel who served the United States in all wars. These men and women served our country or are presently serving our country. As this is written there are men and women still in Afghanistan and again in Iraq in combat. Here at home in the US, there are veterans from previous wars that joined the military and served. These men and women left their families and served on foreign soil. These veterans came home; some of them came home to face heath problems. Some brave men and women did not make it home. Their life ended in combat. It is with heartfelt gratitude that I remember loved ones who served, and friends who lost precious family members in war.
May we know a time of world peace very soon. But in the meantime these veterans have my utmost respect and gratitude.

“Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause. Honor, also, to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field and serves, as he best can, the same cause.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

Peace.

November 10,

Finding out the gender of a growing new life can be most exciting….boy or girl, pink or blue, beautiful or handsome, cinderella or power rangers, precious! We found out we will have a grandson, a boy to love and enjoy. Even with all these early stereotypes it will be fun to expose our grandson to the good things in life such as fishing, baking, hiking, books, kindness, giving and love.

Although this opens a new way of thinking about this developing life there is no difference in what we look forward to enjoying about this precious life. From what we have learned from observing our friends, a grandchild is just the best of relationships within the family. Love completely and then send this bundle of joy home to Mother and Father.

We went to Babies "R" Us and just as we entered the store I warned Bobby that this could be overwhelming. We wanted to find some adorable male shoes. We left with the precious combination in this image.

We are grateful for this unique time in our life and thank God for the blessings of our developing grandson.

Peace.

November 8,

Places of worship are interesting to visit when traveling. Their beauty and style add to one’s idea of worship. When attending a service what is lost in language is there for the eye to take in for contemplation. These houses of worship can also be a peaceful place to sit in solitude while traveling.

This image was captured during our visit to Dubrovnik, Croatia. We stepped in and enjoyed the beauty and tranquility of this lovely church.

“Going to church is a beautiful act of humility. You are saying to the world, "I need God and His family.”
~ Carlos A.Rodriguez

Peace

November 7,

The combination of the heart and mind is fundamental to living a life of worth. The mind alone is analytical; add in the heart to this equation and the result is compassion, patience and love to name a few.

There is a field of medicine devoted to the study of the heart/mind combination, nerocardiology. According to Dr. Dominique Surel in “Thinking from the Heart”, "It seems we have a second “brain” in our chest.” He mentions further that the heart learns and remembers, acts separately from the brain, and communicates in signals to the brain. In fact there is evidence that the heart sends more messages to the brain in a day than the brain sends to the heart. Thinking from the heart leads to mindfulness and thoughtfulness. And this leads to living a life of worth.

This healthy heart and mind combination is of great value to me and is something I hold deep gratitude for each day. And it was this wonderful combination that led to another thoughtful project of service yesterday for the Alternative Gift Fair next week. Thank you to Cathy, Jackie, Sheryl, and Jacque for stirring, chopping
peppers and apricots, filling jars, and washing dishes in the canning process for the burgundy cranberry sauce that is a popular item at the bake sale. In our church, when word goes out for help there are always people with that winning combination of hearts and minds for service to others. I am grateful.

"The brain gives the heart its sight. The heart gives the brain its vision."~ Kall

The ability to think, remember details and problem solve are traits which come from the amazing organ, the brain. A healthy brain is an amazing gift. The brain is the control center for the body and consists of three parts. The forebrain allows us to feel, learn and remember. The brainstem sends and receives messages. The hindbrain controls involuntary activities such as digestion and breathing; the ability to move comes from this area of the brain. A healthy brain is an amazing gift, and I am abundantly grateful for this amazing organ.

My photography challenges my brain and gives it exercise. My camera is capable of recording images in a multitude of combinations and styles yet on its own does nothing. It is up to me, the reliance on my brain, to take charge, to experiment, to push the limit, get that image or learn from a poor one. Photography is my foreign language, my musical instrument, my therapeutic exercise for my mind. Again, I am thankful for this wonderful organ that is housed in my head. I am thankful as well for our camera club which stimulates, challenges and encourages me.

I slipped from our table at dinner to capture the sunset one evening and noticed a photographer working with a couple. It was an opportunity to capture a silhouette, a type of photography that is a challenge for me. I thank my husband for his eternal patience for all the times a scene draws me away to my camera, and for others who happen to be with me and wait while a spot in time is captured.

"The greatest discovery of my generation is that man can alter his life simply by altering his attitude of mind.”~ William James

Peace.

Click on the image to play video.

November 4,

One of the highlights of our recent trip was a guided tour by a local expert on Pompeii. This unique and historic place had been on our list to see for some time. The imagination does not prepare one for what the eyes take in. Much was learned that day on our visit; these images capture some of this magnificent site.

Carole D. Bos, J.D. writes, "It was lunch time in the ancient Italian city of Pompeii. Vesuvius, the nearby volcano, was about to begin 19 hours of spectacular eruptions.All the people in the 600-year-old town of 20,000 could have escaped. There had been time to flee. But in 79 A.D., no one recognized the inherent danger of the mountain’s warnings. By the time Vesuvius stopped belching poisonous gas, the bustling city of Pompeii was silent, completely buried by volcanic ash and debris. It remained silent for 1700 years.”

"For several days before (the eruption) the earth had been shaken, but this fact
did not cause fear because it was a commonly observed feature in Campania."
~Pliny the Younger Eyewitness to Vesuvius Eruption 24-25 August 79 A.D.

The architecture, the colorful and decorative walls and floors, sundials, statues and the lay out of the city are just a few of the marvels one walks away with after a visit. I am filled with awe and gratitude for this city and the archeologists who so diligently unearthed this amazing site of life long ago.

Peace.

November 3,

Tomorrow Americans have the privilege of casting their votes for the candidates that best represent their values. The nature of politics is distasteful. Thankfully we live in a country where we have the right to speak freely and vote for our choice of representation. Colorado is one of the swing states where every vote counts due to the closeness of the races and the power balance of the parties in government. We have been bombarded through every type of media with campaign promises, and allegations. All Americans have the opportunity and the duty to vote by tomorrow. Apathy leads to misrepresentation. Fill out those ballots, have your say and be done with it. I am grateful for this privilege and the end of campaigning.

This image was captured during the 4th of July parade in Crested Butte. This beautiful mountain community values its land resources of gorgeous mountains, valleys, streams, and rivers, and the the privilege of freedom of speech and thought. To keep these values and privileges citizens have to be mindful of who best represents them in office.

“Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

Peace.

October 31,

Happy Halloween! Children make Halloween fun and sweet. We have enjoyed opening our door to colorful costumes for many years. Taking Sara around to visit neighbors and friends was always enjoyable. Here in Colorado the children and parents are grateful when the weather cooperates so that their costume is seen with out the cover of a coat.

Sara was three here and was wearing a bear costume I made. This was probably one of my last attempts at sewing. Bobby and I joined her in bear costume that year as the three bears. Ernie was big in her life then as can be seen from our pumpkin.

Halloween is a fun time and I am grateful for the sweet memories and promise of little visitors tonight. And for all my family and friends who are teachers, this year it is on a Friday!

"A grandmother pretends she doesn't know who you are on Halloween." ~Erma Bombeck

Peace.

October 30,

Many hands make a task easier and more enjoyable. Thus was the case when the request for help went out for making dog biscuits for the upcoming Alternative Gift Fair in Evergreen. Our church is one of seven faith groups to organize and staff this wonderful two day event benefitting local and worldwide nonprofits. Some beautiful hands and hearts gathered today to make dog biscuits to sell at the AGF Bake Sale. It was a pleasure to work with these wonderful women. We were fed a gourmet lunch by our resident gourmet chef, Jacque Whyte. It is truly a blessing to have such eager souls join in the preparations for these dog treats.

“Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don't live in a world all of your own.”
~ Albert Schweitzer

Peace.

October 29,

I take my vision for granted assuming that this precious gift will always be there to observe and marvel at the beauty and contrast in each day. To see the colors in nature, faces of loved ones, and life around me is a precious gift. What would it be like to never see a sunrise or sunset or the joy or tears of someone, or the words and images of literature? Observing the beauty of life adds meaning to life.

It was with sheer gratitude that we observed this beautiful sunrise from our room in Ravello, Italy. What a perfect beginning of a new day fresh and rich with opportunity. What a difference it might make in the world if everyone began their day in this peaceful and beautiful way.

“There are things you can’t reach. But
You can reach out to them, and all day long.

The wind, the bird flying away. The idea of god.

And it can keep you busy as anything else, and happier.

I look; morning to night I am never done with looking.

Looking I mean not just standing around, but standing around
As though with your arms open.”
~Mary Oliver

Peace.

October 28,

Getting away and traveling gives one perspective on life and other cultures. It was most enjoyable being unplugged from television, phones, and computers which provided more time and opportunities to be in the moment and take in the experiences and views. Wherever we were the local people were kind and helpful to share the history and knowledge of their area.

We traveled to three countries. Dubrovnik, Croatia is a beautiful walled city rich with history and filled with people who loved their city and took pride in its long history. Montenegro was beautiful in natural landscape but short on pride and freedom of speech. The Amalfi Coast of Italy is beautiful and it was here that we joined our favorite active vacation group, VBT for a week of hiking the hills along Salerno Bay and Amalfi Coast. Visiting the remains of Pompeii with a local guide was something we have been wanting to do for some time. We had the privilege of making new friends over the course of the week. We had time on the trail to share stories and learn about each other while enjoying the beauty of the remote areas of this popular coast and learning the history of this area with our Italian VBT guides.

This image was captured on our hike along the Path of Gods from Agerola to Positano. This was an old structure built into the overhang of rock and used for hiding. A person in hiding would have been successful in getting away and being removed. This structure captured my attention due to its location and size. One misstep from this structure would send the occupant off the side of the cliff. This was such a gorgeous hike with beautiful vistas and signs like this structure of life long ago.

With wonderful memories it was a gift to arrive home safely. Traveling is wonderful, yet there is no place like home.

I am grateful for these perspectives of life in other cultures and experiences of the past two weeks.

“Travel is the discovery of truth; an affirmation of the promise that human kind is far more beautiful than it is flawed. With each trip comes a new optimism that where there is despair and hardship, there are ideas and people just waiting to be energized, to be empowered, to make a difference for good.” ~ Dan Thompson
Peace.

October 10,

To unplug from one’s electronic communication can be good and enlightening so today will be my last post for two weeks. That will not keep me from contemplating and making note of gratitude as paper and pencil remain a viable option. It is my hope to be fully present along my path during this time and take a closer look at my surroundings. See further, feel deeper, listen fully are my hopes. I look forward to being back on this blog and sharing my experiences of life without cell phone, computer and television.

This image is of Denver’s Blue Bear at the Convention Center downtown. This is a popular blue sculpture unlike the one that greets travelers at the airport. One day I had fun capturing different angles of this big blue bear. This bear is noticing, observing the goings on inside.

“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.” ~ Thích Nhất Hạnh